A Step-By-Step Guide on How to Implement Selection Sort in C

If you are embarking on a journey to master the art of sorting algorithms in C programming, then it is time to dive into the world of selection sort C code. While the universe of sorting algorithms may seem vast and intricate, the selection sort program in C emerges as a beacon of simplicity and efficiency. In this article, we will take you on a step-by-step exploration of how to implement selection sort in C.

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This fundamental selection sort algorithm, though straightforward, carries profound insights into the art of organising arrays. By the end of this journey, you will not only grasp the inner workings of selection sort in C but also be well-equipped to apply it to your own C programs. If you are interested in increasing your knowledge and skills in this domain you can have a look at Online C Courses and Certifications listed on our website.

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Bubble Sort and Selection Sort Program in C

In the field of sorting algorithms, two commonly encountered names are "Bubble Sort" and "Selection Sort." These algorithms are like well-worn tools in a programmer's toolkit, each with its unique way of tackling the task of arranging elements in a specific order.

Bubble Sort in C

Bubble Sort is perhaps one of the simplest sorting algorithms. It derives its name from the way smaller elements "bubble" to the top of the list as the algorithm iterates through the array. In a nutshell, Bubble Sort compares adjacent elements and swaps them if they are in the wrong order. This process repeats until the entire array is sorted. While Bubble Sort is straightforward to understand and implement, it may not be the most efficient choice for large datasets. Its simplicity comes at the cost of higher time complexity, particularly for larger datasets and lists.

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Selection Sort in C

On the other hand, Selection Sort, which we are focusing on in this article, is another uncomplicated yet effective sorting technique. It involves dividing the array into two parts – the sorted part and the unsorted part. The algorithm repeatedly selects the minimum (or maximum) element from the unsorted part and moves it to the sorted part.

This process continues until the entire array is sorted. Selection Sort may not be the fastest sorting algorithm for extensive datasets, but its ease of implementation and understanding make it an excellent starting point for those delving into the world of sorting algorithms.

While both Bubble Sort and Selection Sort have their places in the world of sorting, the choice between them often depends on the specific needs of the task at hand. Sometimes simplicity and ease of understanding trump raw performance. In this article, we will explore the inner workings of Selection Sort, providing a detailed step-by-step guide on how to implement this sorting algorithm in C.

What is Selection Sort in C?

Selection sort in C is a straightforward sorting algorithm that works by dividing the input array into two parts: the sorted part and the unsorted part. The selection sort algorithm repeatedly selects the smallest (or largest, depending on the sorting order) element from the unsorted part and moves it to the sorted part. This process continues until the entire array is sorted.

C Program for Selection Sort

Let us begin by implementing the algorithm for selection sort in C. Below is a simple C program that sorts an array in ascending order using the selection sort algorithm.

#include <stdio.h>

//traversing through the array and comparing for minimum values
void selectionSort(int arr[], int n) {
int i, j, min, temp;
for (i = 0; i < n - 1; i++) {
min = i;
for (j = i + 1; j < n; j++) {
if (arr[j] < arr[min]) {
min = j;
}
}
if (min != i) {
temp = arr[i];
arr[i] = arr[min];
arr[min] = temp;
}
}
}
int main() {
int arr[] = {64, 34, 25, 12, 22, 11, 90};
int n = sizeof(arr) / sizeof(arr[0]);

printf("Unsorted array: \n");
for (int i = 0; i < n; i++) {
printf("%d ", arr[i]);
}

selectionSort(arr, n);

printf("\nSorted array: \n");
for (int i = 0; i < n; i++) {
printf("%d ", arr[i]);
}

return 0;
}

In this code for selection sort, the ‘selectionSort’ function takes an array and its size as parameters, and it sorts the array using the selection sort algorithm. The ‘main’ function demonstrates the sorting process on an example array.

Selection Sort Algorithm

The selection sort program in C can be broken down into the following steps:

Find the minimum element: To start, consider the first element as the minimum.

Iterate through the unsorted part: For each element in the unsorted part, check if it is smaller than the current minimum. If a smaller element is found, update the minimum.

Swap the minimum with the first unsorted element: After completing the inner loop, swap the minimum element found with the first element of the unsorted part.

Repeat for the remaining elements: Continue these steps for the remaining unsorted part, excluding the elements already sorted.

The end result is a sorted array with the smallest element in the first position and the largest in the last.

Example of Selection Sort in C

Let us illustrate the example for selection sort process. Consider the following unsorted array:

{64, 34, 25, 12, 22, 11, 90}

First pass: The minimum is 11, so it is swapped with the first element, resulting in {11, 34, 25, 12, 22, 64, 90}.

Second pass: The minimum is 12, so it is swapped with the second element, resulting in {11, 12, 25, 34, 22, 64, 90}.

The process continues, and after each pass, the sorted part of the array grows.

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Conclusion

Selection sort in C is a fundamental sorting algorithm that is easy to understand and implement. It works well for small arrays but is less efficient for larger datasets compared to more advanced sorting algorithms like quicksort or mergesort. Nevertheless, it is a great starting point for those learning about sorting algorithms and how to implement them in C. So, get coding and explore the world of selection sort for your next programming adventure.